Rain Smith

An allegedly intoxicated Kingsport man was arrested New Year's Eve after accidentally shooting a friend with a shotgun.

At approximately 7:30 Monday night police responded to the incident at 1709 Myron St. A report at the Sullivan County Sheriff's Office says a deputy found the resident, Eric Flanary, 27, outside in the driveway and holding a compress to the throat of an 18-year-old acquaintance.

The shooting victim, who was bleeding from the neck and arm, was transported to Holston Valley Medical Center by EMS. On Wednesday afternoon Wellmont Spokesperson Jim Wozniak said the man was treated and released.

According to the police report, the shooting appeared to have occurred at a couch in the downstairs portion of the residence. SCSO Public Information Officer Leslie Earhart says Flanary was showing his friend a 16-gauge shotgun when it inadvertently fired.

Detectives responded to the home and hospital to speak with witnesses and the victim. Flanary allegedly had a strong odor of alcohol, while a pat down located a small baggy of marijuana in his back pocket.

Flanary was arrested and charged with reckless endangerment, possession of a gun while under the influence, simple possession of marijuana and public intoxication. He was jailed at the Sullivan County Justice Center and released after posting $5,000 bond.